As a hybrid-powered four-seat coupe, the Lexus RC 300h is a unique offering when it comes to this sector.

And it also helps that the RC just happens to be drop-dead gorgeous, oozing elegance, craftsmanship and exclusivity.

The car has been given a mid-life revamp three years after it was launched, although the changes are subtle rather than sweeping.

In terms of styling tweaks, there’s a resculpted front bumper, which flows smoothly down from the new and very intricate extra-small triple LED headlights.

The car’s face is still dominated by the imposing mesh-patterned grille while, at the rear, the tail lights have also been reshaped.

These modest enhancements make an already-distinguished car look slightly sharper and sportier.

Once behind the wheel, I soon became accustomed to flicking between the different drive modes depending on traffic conditions and road restrictions.

With Eco, Standard and Sport options available, you can save fuel when a laid-back approach is required, or get a move-on when more urgency is needed.

The RC 300h can also function as an electric vehicle for short distances - so long as you stay below 30mph and don’t push the accelerator too hard - thanks to the self-charging hybrid engine.

In reality, you’ll probably only select EV mode in stop-start traffic or in a 20mph zone, but with the former being a daily reality in Bradford and the latter set to become more widespread in the city centre, there may be more call for it than ever.

The furthest I managed to travel on EV mode was during heavy rush-hour traffic along a flat stretch between Brighouse town centre and Bailiff Bridge, with the battery finally running out of charge as I climbed the hill towards Hellfire Crossroads at Wyke.

However, when the traffic clears and there’s a chance for more progressive motoring, the driving experience isn’t quite so satisfying.

The car’s significant mass means it’s less agile when cornering than you might desire, while the steering and front-end grip can feel a touch lacking.

On the plus side, the rear wheel drive set-up will go some way towards pleasing driving purists, while a 0-62mph time of 8.6 seconds is enough to keep the driver engaged.

Meanwhile, the electric CVT transmission is fairly slick and seems a decent match for the 2.5-litre petrol engine,although it does play its part in creating a slightly harsh tone under heavy acceleration.

In truth, both its drivetrain and its chassis are arguably at their best when they are not extended to the limit.

Therefore, the RC feels more at home when you ease off the accelerator, drop the pace a little and allow yourself to enjoy the excellent ride quality and relatively quiet cabin, which is well insulated from wind, road and engine noise.

All of which brings me to another of the RC’s major plus points - the luxurious interior.

Lexus has added a number of even plusher materials to a cockpit that was already rather nicely equipped - and the result is impressive.

Build quality is excellent, with everything from the high-quality materials to the precise layout of controls and gauges being created with Lexus Takumi craftsmanship.

Tech upgrades include a more wholesome batch of driver assist systems and there are also optional luxuries such as the superb 17-speaker Mark Levinson sound system, fitted to this test car.

The seats are also beautifully-sculpted to allow the car’s occupants to sink into their sitting position to enjoy a relaxing journey.

While this Lexus is unlikely to ever hit the sales volumes of its German rivals in the UK, there's no question that the tweaks made to the RC have made it a more appealing, although still alternative choice.

Lexus RC 300h

PRICE: £45,800 on the road

ENGINE: 2.5 litre petrol with hybrid system

TOP SPEED: 118mph

0-62MPH: 8.6 seconds

ECONOMY: 40.85-47.55mpg and 114g/km

INSURANCE GROUP: 32E

VED BAND: G